Former ESPN Personality Faces New Domestic Violence Felonies While On Probation
The Los Angeles Times reports former ESPN sports personality Jay Mariotti has been charged by the Los Angeles District Attorney with three
domestic violence related felonies -- stalking, domestic violence and assault.
Mariotti pleaded not guilty Wednesday to the charges: stalking, corporal injury on a spouse or domestic partner, and assault by means likely to produce great bodily injury. Mariotti also entered a not guilty plea to two misdemeanor counts of disobeying a court order. His next court dates are set in the Airport Branch of the Los Angeles Superior Court.
The LA Times reports that in addition to confronting his ex-girlfriend at a restaurant on September 30 -- the same day he was convicted of one count of misdemeanor domestic violence -- prosecutors claim he argued with her again outside a Venice restaurant on April 15. Prosecutors allege Mariotti pulled a chunk of her hair out and grabbed her cellphone, while shouting at her.
In his first case, Mariotti avoided time in the Los Angeles County Jail and was granted three years' summary or informal probation and required to perform 40 days of community service. He was ordered to complete a 52-week domestic violence program and stay away from his ex-girlfriend. He could face jail time for violating the terms of probation in this case in addition to the sentence on the new felony charges.
If you find yourself charged with a domestic violence case in Los Angeles, Orange County or Southern California, contact the attorneys at Gold, Leftwich & Wagner for experienced legal representation.